Great Moon

Great Moon Knit Shawl Pattern

What Is Being Made

Great Moon is a crescent-shaped prayer shawl designed by Hilary Designs and published by Criminal Knits in 2014. This downloadable knitting pattern creates an elegant lacy shawl suitable for spiritual practice or everyday wear. The crescent silhouette makes it a versatile accessory that drapes beautifully across the shoulders.

Pattern Overview and Design

The shawl features a simple lacy construction that accommodates multiple yarn weights, making it an excellent project for stash busting or creating striking visual effects by varying yarn weights throughout. The pattern begins with a small cast-on and increases progressively to create the distinctive crescent shape.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate crafters. Key techniques include:

• Increases: Knit front and back (kf&b) stitches are used to create shaping throughout the pattern
• Yarn overs: Yarn overs (yo) combined with knit two together decreases create the lacy stitch pattern
• Decreases: Knit two together (K2tog) stitches balance the increases and form the openwork design
• Bind-off: A larger needle size is used specifically for binding off to ensure a flexible, non-restrictive edge

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes basic knit stitches combined to create lace effects:

• Knit stitch (K)
• Purl stitch (P)
• Knit front and back increase (kf&b)
• Yarn over (yo)
• Knit two together decrease (K2tog)

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The pattern recommends 2 skeins of Feza ALP Natural, each containing 230 yards, for a total of approximately 460 yards. Alternatively, knitters can substitute yarn from their stash, varying weights for a custom striped or color-blocked effect. Special note: if using Feza ALP Natural, do not cast on with the chenille portion of the skein.

Needles: Size 9 circular needles are used for the main knitting, with Size 11 needles reserved for the bind-off only to create a stretchy, comfortable edge.

Additional supplies: Markers for tracking pattern repeats and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends upon completion.

Pattern Structure

The Great Moon pattern uses a systematic approach with repeating rows that build the crescent shape. The pattern begins with a cast-on of 4 stitches and progresses through alternating rows of increases and lace stitches. Row 2 increases at both edges, while Row 3 incorporates yarn overs and decreases to create the openwork lace detail. This rhythmic repetition makes the pattern accessible for knitters following a straightforward sequence.